HOME REMEDIES FOR TREATING THE COMMON COLD

The common cold occurs more often then other disease. It is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by a viral infection. It usually lasts between 5 to 10 days, varying from person to person. Common cold symptoms mostly affect the nose, but also the ears, sinuses and bronchial tubes.

Relieving Nasal Symptoms of the Common Cold

There are various home remedies people can make use of to relieve uncomfortable nasal symptoms:

Drinking lots of liquids and hot liquids

Drinking los of fluids can help to thin the mucus, keeping it moving freely and making it easier
the body to expel it. Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion and can soothe membranes lining the
nose and throat. Try hot tea with honey, herbs such as ginger, mint, thyme, lemon balm, garlic
or mustard. Chicken soup is one of the most beneficial treatments; the smell of the soup releases
mucus in the nose to help the body fight viral invaders; it contains cysteines which are good at
thinning the mucus.

Blow the nose often and do it correctly

It is important to blow the nose regularly when trying to relieve nasal symptoms. Dont not blow
too hard as this can cause earache. The best to blow a nose is to press one finger over one nostril
blow gently to clear the other.

Vapourize

Steam can loosen mucus. As well, a hot, steam shower can moisturize nasal passages and
provide relaxation. Try using a humidifier to add moisture to an immediate environment,
keeping nasal tissues moist and more comfortable.The most important thing to remember is
that dry nasal membranes provide poor protection against viral invasion. Menthol, eucalyptus
and camphor all contain numbing ingredients. People can also make their own saline drops by
adding a quarter teaspooon of salt to eight ounces of water four to five times a day.

Other Home Remedies for Common Cold

Stay rested and warm

Staying well rested helps the body direct its energy toward the immune system battle which
taxes the body. It is important to relax, so read a book, watch TV and skip any normal exercise
routines. Try to stay inside and keep covered, especially with a fever.

Gargling for a sore throat

Gargling can moisten a throat and bring temporary relief. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of
warm water and gargle, do this four times a day.

Stop Smoking

Smokers often have a tougher time getting rid of their cold symptoms. In fact, smoking irritates
the bronchial tubes, thereby increasing the risk of developing pneumonia. Smoking depresses
the immune system.